scholarly journals Sensory Recovery Outcome after Digital Nerve Repair in Relation to Different Reconstructive Techniques: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-17 ◽  
Author(s):  
Felix J. Paprottka ◽  
Petra Wolf ◽  
Yves Harder ◽  
Yasmin Kern ◽  
Philipp M. Paprottka ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
Graft Material ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Nerve Reconstruction ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Sensory Recovery ◽  
End To End

Good clinical outcome after digital nerve repair is highly relevant for proper hand function and has a significant socioeconomic impact. However, level of evidence for competing surgical techniques is low. The aim is to summarize and compare the outcomes of digital nerve repair with different methods (end-to-end and end-to-side coaptations, nerve grafts, artificial conduit-, vein-, muscle, and muscle-in-vein reconstructions, and replantations) to provide an aid for choosing an individual technique of nerve reconstruction and to create reference values of standard repair for nonrandomized clinical studies. 87 publications including 2,997 nerve repairs were suitable for a precise evaluation. For digital nerve repairs there was practically no particular technique superior to another. Only end-to-side coaptation had an inferior two-point discrimination in comparison to end-to-end coaptation or nerve grafting. Furthermore, this meta-analysis showed that youth was associated with an improved sensory recovery outcome in patients who underwent digital replantation. For end-to-end coaptations, recent publications had significantly better sensory recovery outcomes than older ones. Given minor differences in outcome, the main criteria in choosing an adequate surgical technique should be gap length and donor site morbidity caused by graft material harvesting. Our clinical experience was used to provide a decision tree for digital nerve repair.

Comparison of digital nerve sensory recovery after repair using loupe or operating microscope magnification

2014 ◽  
Vol 40 (6) ◽  
pp. 608-613 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. R. Thomas ◽  
R. J. Saunders ◽  
K. R. Means
Keyword(s):  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Operating Microscope ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Nerve Injuries ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Visual Analogue Pain ◽  
Pain Scores ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Sensory Recovery ◽  
Loupe Magnification

Our purpose was to determine whether there was a significant difference in sensory recovery after digital nerve repair using loupe magnification or an operating microscope. We identified patients aged 21–75 who had primary proper digital nerve repairs at least 24 months before our study. A total of 12 patients with 13 digital nerve injuries repaired with loupe magnification and nine patients with 12 digital nerve injuries repaired using the operating microscope, agreed to return for assessment by a therapist blinded to treatment. We found no significant difference in sensory recovery between the two groups as measured by static two-point discrimination, moving two-point discrimination, and Semmes–Weinstein monofilament. There were also no significant differences in average Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand or visual analogue pain scores. Level of evidence: IV

scholarly journals A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing muscle-in-vein conduits with autologous nerve grafts for nerve reconstruction

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Johannes C. Heinzel ◽  
Mai Quyen Nguyen ◽  
Laura Kefalianakis ◽  
Cosima Prahm ◽  
Adrien Daigeler ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Donor Site Morbidity ◽  
The Body ◽  
Large Animal ◽  
Nerve Reconstruction ◽  
Gold Standard Method ◽  
Nerve Grafts ◽  
Segmental Nerve

AbstractThe gold-standard method for reconstruction of segmental nerve defects, the autologous nerve graft, has several drawbacks in terms of tissue availability and donor site morbidity. Therefore, feasible alternatives to autologous nerve grafts are sought. Muscle-in-vein conduits have been proposed as an alternative to autologous nerve grafts almost three decades ago, given the abundance of both tissues throughout the body. Based on the anti-inflammatory effects of veins and the proregenerative environment established by muscle tissue, this approach has been studied in various preclinical and some clinical trials. There is still no comprehensive systematic summary to conclude efficacy and feasibility of muscle-in-vein conduits for reconstruction of segmental nerve defects. Given this lack of a conclusive summary, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the potential of muscle-in-vein conduits. This work’s main findings are profound discrepancies regarding the results following nerve repair by means of muscle-in-vein conduits in a preclinical or clinical setting. We identified differences in study methodology, inter-species neurobiology and the limited number of clinical studies to be the main reasons for the still inconclusive results. In conclusion, we advise for large animal studies to elucidate the feasibility of muscle-in-vein conduits for repair of segmental defects of critical size in mixed nerves.

Nerve reconstruction with muscle-in-vein conduits VS autologous nerve grafts - a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical and clinical studies

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Johannes C. Heinzel ◽  
Mai Q. Nguyen ◽  
Laura Kefalianakis ◽  
Cosima Prahm ◽  
Adrien Daigeler ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Studies ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
The Body ◽  
Large Animal ◽  
Nerve Reconstruction ◽  
Gold Standard Method ◽  
Nerve Grafts ◽  
Segmental Nerve

Abstract The gold-standard method for reconstruction of segmental nerve defects, the autologous nerve graft, has several drawbacks in terms of tissue availability and donor site morbidity. Therefore, feasible alternatives to autologous nerve grafts are sought. Muscle-in-vein conduits have been proposed as an alternative to autologous nerve grafts almost three decades ago, given the abundance of both tissues throughout the body. Based on the anti-inflammatory effects of veins and the proregenerative environment established by muscle tissue, this approach has been studied in various preclinical and some clinical trials. There is still no comprehensive systematic summary to conclude efficacy and feasibility of muscle-in-vein conduits for reconstruction of segmental nerve defects. Given this lack of a conclusive summary, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the potential of muscle-in-vein conduits. This work’s main findings are profound discrepancies regarding the results following nerve repair by means of muscle-in-vein conduits in a preclinical or clinical setting. We identified differences in study methodology, inter-species neurobiology and the limited number of clinical studies to be the main reasons for the still inconclusive results. In conclusion, we advise for large animal studies to elucidate the feasibility of muscle-in-vein conduits for repair of segmental defects of critical size in mixed nerves.

scholarly journals Long-Term Outcomes of Digital Nerve Repair Accompanied by Digital Artery Injury in Flexor Zone 2

2019 ◽  
Vol 06 (01) ◽  
pp. e7-e9
Author(s):  
Gokce Yildiran ◽  
Mustafa Sutcu ◽  
Osman Akdag ◽  
Zekeriya Tosun
Keyword(s):  
Blood Flow ◽  
Blood Supply ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Arterial Injury ◽  
Digital Artery ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Sensory Recovery

Abstract Objectives Better healing results of any tissue or area is closely linked with a well-blood supply in reconstructive surgery. Peripheric nerve healing is closely related to blood supply as well. We aimed to assess whether there was any difference between digital nerve healing with and without extrinsic blood supply. Methods We assessed 48 patients with unilateral digital nerve injury at zone 2. Twenty-four of them had unrepairable arterial injury and other 24 had no arterial injury. The 24 patients in the “unrepaired artery group” (UA) and 24 patients in the “intact artery group” (IA) were compared. Results Mean follow-up time was 17.7 months. The mean two-point discrimination (2PD) was 5.29 mm in IA group and 5.37 mm in UA group. One neuroma in IA group and two neuromas in UA group were determined. We found no statistically significant difference between these groups in terms of neuroma, 2PD, and cold intolerance. The results of British Medical Research Council sensory recovery clinical scale were comparable for these two groups. Conclusion Digital nerve healing is related to numerous factors. We hypothesized that blood flow may be one of these factors; however, at this zone digital artery repair is not the foremost determinant for digital nerve healing. Further researches should be done for upper injury levels. Despite this result, we argue not to leave the digital artery without repairment and we propose to repair both artery and nerve to achieve the normal anatomical integrity and to warrant finger blood flow in possible future injuries.

Modified Littler flap for sensory reconstruction of large thumb pulp defects

2018 ◽  
Vol 43 (5) ◽  
pp. 546-553 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hui Wang ◽  
Xiaoxi Yang ◽  
Chao Chen ◽  
Bin Wang ◽  
Wei Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Donor Site ◽  
Ring Finger ◽  
Middle Finger ◽  
Donor Site Morbidity ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Dorsal Branch ◽  
Ulnar Aspect ◽  
Monofilament Test

The Littler flap has been widely used to repair large pulp defects of the thumb; however, several complications have occurred frequently. In order to reduce these issues, the modified Littler flap innervated by the dorsal branch of the proper digital nerve and the proper digital nerve from the ulnar aspect of the middle finger or the radial aspect of the ring finger were devised in 16 consecutive cases. At the donor site, the defect of the proper digital nerve was repaired with a nerve graft from the proximal portion of the ipsilateral dorsal branch of the proper digital nerve. At the final follow-up, the scores for the static two-point discrimination test, Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test and total active motions in both recipient and donor fingers were nearly normal. This modified Littler flap provides a simple and reliable alternative for treatment of large defects of the thumb pulp with low donor-site morbidity. Level of Evidence: IV

Outcomes of surgical repair of a single digital nerve in adults

2019 ◽  
Vol 44 (6) ◽  
pp. 560-565 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abhilash Jain ◽  
Rebecca Dunlop ◽  
Tim Hems ◽  
Jin Bo Tang
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Repair ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Hand Dominance ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Current Standard ◽  
Recent Systematic Review ◽  
Standard Management ◽  
Nerve Recovery ◽  
Sensory Recovery ◽  
Improved Function

Current standard management of a cut digital nerve is end-to-end microsurgical nerve coaptation where possible. A recent systematic review of adult digital nerve injuries that were either repaired or left unrepaired showed that the evidence for good nerve recovery or improved function following nerve repair is poor. In the 30 studies included, only 24% of repaired nerves regained sensory recovery close to or equivalent to estimated pre-injury levels. Neuroma rates were the same in those nerves repaired (4.6%) and those not repaired (5%). Questions under debate include proper assessment methods of outcomes, decision making for repair or no repair to different fingers or the thumb, levels of injury, age, and hand dominance. This review summarizes the major evidence available and debates the surgical dogma that surrounds this injury.

scholarly journals Peripheral Nerve Reconstruction after Injury: A Review of Clinical and Experimental Therapies

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. Grinsell ◽  
C. P. Keating
Keyword(s):  
Peripheral Nerve ◽  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Peripheral Nerve Regeneration ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
The Body ◽  
Sensory Function ◽  
Nerve Reconstruction ◽  
Nerve Transfers ◽  
Experimental Therapies ◽  
Surgical Options

Unlike other tissues in the body, peripheral nerve regeneration is slow and usually incomplete. Less than half of patients who undergo nerve repair after injury regain good to excellent motor or sensory function and current surgical techniques are similar to those described by Sunderland more than 60 years ago. Our increasing knowledge about nerve physiology and regeneration far outweighs our surgical abilities to reconstruct damaged nerves and successfully regenerate motor and sensory function. It is technically possible to reconstruct nerves at the fascicular level but not at the level of individual axons. Recent surgical options including nerve transfers demonstrate promise in improving outcomes for proximal nerve injuries and experimental molecular and bioengineering strategies are being developed to overcome biological roadblocks limiting patient recovery.

scholarly journals Articular Cartilage Defects of the Glenohumeral Joint: A Systematic Review of Treatment Options and Outcomes

Cartilage ◽  
2019 ◽  
pp. 194760351987085 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anthony Fiegen ◽  
Devin P. Leland ◽  
Christopher D. Bernard ◽  
Aaron J. Krych ◽  
Jonathan D. Barlow ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Patient Reported Outcomes ◽  
Glenohumeral Joint ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Surgical Techniques ◽  
Cartilage Defects ◽  
Imaging Findings ◽  
Level Of Evidence ◽  
Patient Reported

Objective To report radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings, patient-reported outcomes, and complications and/or reoperations following nonarthroplasty surgical intervention for focal glenohumeral cartilage defects. Design A literature search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Patients were included if they possessed a chondral defect of the humeral head, glenoid, or both, which had been treated with a joint preserving nonarthroplasty procedure. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies scoring system. Study demographics, surgical technique, imaging findings, patient-reported outcomes, complications, failures, and reoperations were collected. Results Fourteen studies with 98 patients (100 shoulders) met the inclusion criteria. Patient ages ranged from 7 to 74 years. The nonarthroplasty surgical techniques utilized included microfracture (67 shoulders), osteochondral transplantation (28 shoulders), chondrocyte transplantation (4 shoulders), and internal fixation (1 shoulder). The rates of radiographic union and progression of osteoarthritis ranged between 90% to 100% and 57% to 100%, respectively. Visual analog scores ranged from 0 to 1.9 at final follow-up. Mean postoperative ASES (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons) shoulder scores ranged from 75.8-100. Mean postoperative CSS (Constant Shoulder Score) scores ranged from 83.3-94. Mean postoperative SSV (Subjective Shoulder Value) ranged from 70% to 99%. Failure and reoperation rates ranged between 0% to 35% and 0% to 30%, respectively, with the most common reoperation being conversion to prosthetic arthroplasty. Conclusions In this systematic review, nonarthroplasty surgical techniques demonstrated acceptable rates of radiographic healing, improved patient reported outcomes, minimal complications, and low rates of failure or reoperation. Joint preserving techniques are likely viable options to prolong function of the native shoulder and provide short- to midterm pain relief in young and highly active patients. Level of Evidence Level IV.

Termino-lateral nerve suture in lesions of the digital nerves: clinical experience and literature review

2009 ◽  
Vol 35 (2) ◽  
pp. 109-114 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Artiaco ◽  
P. Tos ◽  
L. G. Conforti ◽  
S. Geuna ◽  
B. Battiston
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Experience ◽  
Functional Results ◽  
Discrimination Test ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Nerve Reconstruction ◽  
Nerve Lesions ◽  
Nerve Suture ◽  
Sensory Recovery ◽  
The Mean ◽  
The One

Documented experience of treatment of digital nerve lesions with the termino-lateral (end-to-side) nerve suture is limited. Our clinical experience of this technique is detailed here alongside a systematic review of the previous literature. We performed, from 2002 to 2008, seven termino-lateral sutures with epineural window opening for digital nerve lesions. Functional outcome was analysed using the two-point discrimination test and the Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test. The results showed a sensory recovery of S3+ in six cases and S3 in one case. The mean distance found in the two-point discrimination test was 12.7 mm (range 8–18 mm). After a review of the literature, we were able to obtain homogeneous data from 17 additional patients operated by termino-lateral coaptation. The overall number of cases included in our review was 24. A sensory recovery was observed in 23 out of 24 patients. The functional results were S0 in one case, S3 in one case, S3+ in twenty cases and S4 in two cases. Excluding the one unfavourable case, the mean distance in the two-point discrimination test was 9.7 mm (range 3–18 mm). It can thus be concluded that the treatment of digital nerve lesions with termino-lateral suture showed encouraging results. Based on the results obtained in this current study we believe that in case of loss of substance, end-to-side nerve coaptation may be an alternative to biological and synthetic tubulisation when a digital nerve reconstruction by means of nerve autograft is declined by the patient.

Does nerve repair influence the outcome of reconstruction of a digital nail defect using a free composite flap taken from the great toe?

2014 ◽  
Vol 40 (6) ◽  
pp. 583-590 ◽  
Author(s):  
X. Zhang ◽  
C. Chen ◽  
Y. Li ◽  
X. Shao ◽  
W. Guo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nerve Repair ◽  
Donor Site ◽  
Digital Nerve ◽  
Great Toe ◽  
Dorsal Branch ◽  
Mean Size ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Repair Group ◽  
Composite Flap

We describe reconstruction of a nail unit defect in the finger using a free composite flap taken from the great toe, comparing the outcome in patients in whom neurorrhaphy between the dorsal digital nerve of the great toe and the dorsal branch of the proper digital nerve of the injured finger was performed to those in which no nerve repair was made. From January 2002 to March 2009, 47 patients with traumatic fingernail defects were treated. Twenty-two patients before February 2005 had no nerve repair and subsequently 25 patients had nerve repair. The mean size of the germinal matrix and sterile matrix defects was 9 × 8 mm, and the mean size of the nail bed flaps was 9 × 9 mm. The mean length of the arteries used for the flap was 2.2 cm. Outcomes were rated. In the nerve repair group, full flap survival was achieved in 24 patients. At the mean follow-up period of 25 months, there were 12 excellent, seven very good, four good, and two fair results. In the comparison group without nerve repair, there were seven excellent, four very good, four good, five fair, and two poor results. Donor site morbidities were similar in both groups. The use of a free composite flap taken from the great toe is a useful technique for reconstructing nail unit defects in the finger. Innervated nail flap reconstructions tended to show better outcomes than those in which no nerve repair was performed. There is no difference in function or donor site between those in whom the nerve was repaired compared with those in whom it was not repaired.

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